The responsible use of algorithms requires insight into the impact on human rights. The University of Utrecht developed the Impact Assessment Human Rights and Algorithms (IAMA), commissioned by the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations. Together with the National ICT Guild, they conducted a pilot at 15 government organizations. In the report IAMA in action, they share the lessons learned.
The pilots show that IAMA often leaves a positive impression, despite prior skepticism. Participants appreciated the different perspectives (legal, ethical, technical) and discussions it provided. The IAMA tool is seen as a useful tool for conversations about fundamental rights, data and ethics. However, participants also found the process sometimes time-consuming, some questions less relevant, and struggled to include all necessary roles.
The report also makes several recommendations to improve IAMA:
Develop a pre-IAMA or quick scan. Many organizations find it difficult to determine when to perform an IAMA. This is because it is not necessary for every algorithm. The IAMA is primarily intended for so-called high-risk algorithms.
Update the tool as developments are rapid. Bring the IAMA more in line with the European AI Regulation.
Provide good process guidance. To get as much out of it as possible within a limited time, it is important to raise the good points and ask about them. The process facilitator need not be external, but objective.
The length of the IAMA document can sometimes be daunting. But about three-quarters is explanatory. Therefore, in a future version, split the manual and questions into 2 documents.
Want to read all the recommendations? A complete overview is in Chapter 6 of the report.
Read the interview with the researchers (link to other website) .
Sign up for the webinar: Getting Started with the IAMA (link to other website) on Sept. 24.
View the questions and guide at the IAMA (link to other website).
Download the English translation: The FRAIA (link to other website).
Download the English translation of the report: FRAIA in Action (link to other website).
Read this article: Getting started with the IAMA (link to other website). (iBoard, Dec. 12, 2022).
